How Do You Spell KISHKINDHA?

Pronunciation: [kˈɪʃka͡ɪndhə] (IPA)

The word "kishkindha" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /kɪʃkɪndə/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a "sh" sound in the second syllable. The third syllable starts with a short "i" sound and ends with a soft "d" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound. This word refers to the kingdom of monkeys in the Hindu epic Ramayana and is often used to describe a chaotic or disorderly place.

KISHKINDHA Meaning and Definition

1. Kishkindha, derived from the Sanskrit words "Kishna" (monkey) and "kindha" (forest), is an ancient city mentioned in Hindu mythology and the Indian epic, Ramayana. It refers to the capital city of the Vanara (monkey) kingdom, ruled by King Sugriva, a significant character in the Ramayana.

   Described as a majestic and prosperous city, Kishkindha is depicted as a sprawling forested region, located in present-day Hampi, Karnataka, India. It is renowned for its natural beauty, dense forests, and enchanting landscapes. Kishkindha is believed to be situated near the banks of the Tungabhadra River, where the Vanara clan resided.

   According to the Ramayana, the city became the stronghold of the Vanara army during their mission to rescue Lord Rama's wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. The city's strategic location and the Vanara's alliance with Lord Rama aided in their successful endeavors against Ravana's army later in the epic.

   Kishkindha holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, portraying themes such as loyalty, friendship, and devotion. It symbolizes the unity of the Vanara community and their determination to fight against injustice.

   In modern usage, Kishkindha often signifies a harmonious community or a tightly knit group, akin to the Vanara kingdom, exhibiting cooperation, solidarity, and trust among its members. The term is also occasionally used metaphorically to indicate a hub of activity or a bustling place.

Etymology of KISHKINDHA

The word "Kishkindha" derives from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. It is a compound word consisting of two parts: "Kish" and "kindha".

The term "Kish" is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word "Kesi", which refers to a demon or a powerful adversary. In Hindu mythology, a wicked demon named Kesi was defeated by Lord Krishna.

The second part, "kindha", is derived from the Sanskrit word "kanda", which means a forest or a grove. In ancient Indian literature, "kanda" was often associated with the habitat of monkeys.

When combined, "Kishkindha" signifies "the forest of the demon Kish" or "the grove of the defeated Kesi".